A deep love for their community and a passion for youth action sports inspired Gary and Liza Kalawaia and their family to launch the Kidz Dat Shr3d Organization in Pahrump. Gary, Liza, and their children have transformed their family’s shared love for skateboarding, scootering, and BMX into a nonprofit dedicated to providing kids with a positive environment, resources, and opportunities to pursue action sports safely. At its heart, Kidz Dat Shr3d serves as a movement to engage youth in positive activities, keeping them active, motivated, and away from negative influences.
The idea for Kidz Dat Shr3d first sparked as the family noticed that many young people at their local park seemed to come not for sports but to be idle or engage in troubling behaviors. Observing this, Gary’s son, Kingsten, took it upon himself to inspire others, sparking interest in skateboarding and scooters among his peers. “We started seeing kids come up to him and ask for a ride,” Gary shared. “It hit us that if we could provide more resources, we could help keep kids engaged and on a positive path.” From that moment, the family committed to expanding Kidz Dat Shr3d and building a supportive community around action sports.
At present, Kidz Dat Shr3d has a 501(c)(3) status, allowing it to raise funds and accept donations. Contributions range from cash to supplies such as scooters, bikes, and skateboards. Community members, local businesses, and even family support the organization by donating supplies or funds, often raised through organized events. “Whenever we host an event, it’s about giving back,” Gary explained, emphasizing that each event aims to enrich the community rather than merely seeking profit.
Through organized events, Kidz Dat Shr3d encourages kids to showcase their skills, often charging only a nominal $25 fee, which includes access to prizes and a full day of friendly competition. Gary noted that the events have become popular, but the demand is growing. Many kids arrive without equipment, and the organization provides what it can, creating an inclusive atmosphere where kids can share scooters and skateboards, encouraging camaraderie and unity.
The organization’s vision has grown beyond events, with plans underway to build an action sports facility near Manse Elementary School. This facility will serve as a dedicated hub for action sports, from skateboarding to BMX. “Our goal is to give every kid a safe space to ride, learn, and grow,” Gary said. He envisions the space as a safe haven for kids, with indoor facilities to offer protection from both the elements and less safe environments that currently pose a risk. The family is hopeful the facility will be ready by the end of next year, marking a major step toward building a positive future for Pahrump’s youth.
Community support extends beyond action sports. Vendors from local businesses often participate in Kidz Dat Shr3d events, with many generously donating food and drinks. “Our last event had shaved ice, BBQ, and even Hawaiian pork buns,” Gary shared. In a heartwarming display of community spirit, local vendors saw the need for affordable food options and partnered with Gary to provide food at a reduced cost or even free for the kids. These vendors’ generosity ensures that no child goes hungry at an event, reinforcing the community’s dedication to caring for its youth.
The organization has encountered challenges. As a nonprofit, Kidz Dat Shr3d’s focus on giving away gear and resources hasn’t always been well received by nearby commercial businesses. “A lot of people didn’t understand our vision of giving back, especially businesses trying to sell their products,” Gary admitted. Despite this, the organization has persevered, dedicated to providing the next generation with opportunities and experiences, regardless of financial constraints.
Gary and Liza’s son, Kingsten has been a driving force with this endeavor. At just ten years old, Kingsten Kalawaia has already achieved what many athletes only dream of, becoming a standout talent in skateboarding while serving as a source of inspiration to his peers. His journey began at six, when he asked his dad for a skateboard for his birthday. The moment he first set foot on a board, Kingsten knew he had found something special. His natural skill, combined with a relentless drive to improve, soon set him apart, and before long, he was participating in competitions both locally and internationally.
Kingsten’s list of accomplishments is remarkable for such a young skateboarder. At just ten years old, he has already excelled in major skateboarding competitions, earning first place in both the bowl and street categories at the World Cup in Colorado. Competing on the World Rookie Tour in Prague, he placed second in the bowl category, standing out among seasoned young competitors from across the globe. His path to success has required hours of relentless practice, with Kingsten often dedicating entire days to perfecting his skills at the skate park. “It’s all about practice,” he explained. “I watch videos, try new tricks, and just keep going until I get better.”
Beyond his achievements, Kingsten is passionate about giving back and helping others. At Kidz Dat Shred events, he often mentors newcomers, guiding them through their first tricks and encouraging them to keep pushing their limits. “It feels good to help other kids out and see them get better,” he shared. Kingsten is also a role model in resilience; despite the inevitable falls and injuries that come with skateboarding, he’s learned to pick himself up and keep going—a mindset that’s earned him respect among both kids and adults in the community.
Kingsten’s current goals are ambitious, with new tricks like the “540” and “blunt sex change” on his list to master. A 540 involves spinning one and a half times—creating a 540-degree turn on the skateboard. The move requires precise coordination, strength, and balance to keep the board controlled mid-air. “It’s tough, and I hit my ribs a lot,” Kingsten admitted, though he’s determined to master it. His dedication, along with his love for the sport, drives him to pursue higher levels of competition, inspiring other young skaters to follow his example and chase their own dreams.
Kingsten’s impact goes beyond competition, as he has become a symbol of what Kidz Dat Shred represents: confidence, community, and the courage to push through obstacles. Through his skill and commitment, he’s helping to shape a more positive environment for youth in Pahrump, showing that action sports can be more than just a pastime—they can be a pathway to growth, connection, and personal achievement.
Looking to the future, Kidz Dat Shr3d aims to continue fostering community partnerships and raising awareness about their mission. “If we can give kids a safe environment to grow and learn, we’re investing in our future,” Gary reflected. The organization has quickly grown from a local family’s passion project into a beacon of hope for the community, touching lives and creating lasting impact.
With unwavering support from their community, Gary and his family are determined to make Kidz Dat Shr3d a cornerstone for youth in Pahrump, as well as change the perception of negativity that often comes with the sport. Through dedication, community partnerships, and the power of action sports, they’re proving that everyone, no matter their background, deserves a place to grow, learn, and become part of something greater.
Kidz Dat Shr3d’s next event will be held at Ian Deutsch park in December. For more information on the upcoming event and the organization, visit kidzdatshr3d.org.
